Spinach And Ham Lasagna
A comforting baked lasagna layered with spinach, ham, and melted cheeses, perfect for family dinners and those craving a flavorful, hearty Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook lasagna noodles as directed, then drain, rinse, and set aside.
- Cook frozen spinach as directed and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine skim milk and minced onion, then heat until warm.
- In a separate bowl, mix cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and cornstarch.
- Add cooked spinach and diced ham to the cheese mixture, stirring to combine.
- Layer lasagna noodles, spinach and ham mixture, and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers if desired, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of ricotta cheese to the cottage cheese mixture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, similar to Robie'S Vegetable Lasagna. Make sure to sauté any fresh vegetables before layering to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach And Ham Lasagna pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a Caesar or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a side of Parmesan Pasta Salad would also complement the meal well. Consider serving with Italian cookies (Grandma'S Recipe) for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can add a splash of milk to keep it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Ham Lasagna contains roughly 875 calories, with 35g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), calcium (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1032mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Simply sauté about 6 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the cheese and ham mixture. This will add a vibrant flavor and texture to your lasagna.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles, which are widely available. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially processed items like cottage cheese and ham, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as it will be colder from the fridge. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).